Manufactured circa 1884-1890, this rifle is an extremely rare example of the double falling block rifle that was patented by Valentin Greiss in 1884. The tapering blued barrels are apparently forged together with the action and are struck with the crowned "V" Vorratszeichen mark denoting pre-1891 manufacture and engraved with decorative bands at each muzzle. Raised flat matte rib with bead front sight, signed "GREISS IN MÜNCHEN", blued elevation adjustable rear sight and short blued rail for an additional sight. The action with border and scroll engraving to the sides and engraved with a swirled diamond pattern at the back around the strikers. Bright border engraved hinged breechblocks are each struck with a further crowned "V" Vorratszeichen mark. The upper tang behind the action body is engraved with scrollwork and incorporates a sprung aperture rear sight. Casehardened border and scroll engraved island back-action side locks are each signed "MILLER & VAL. GREISS MÜNCHEN". The casehardened trigger plate is fitted with a set trigger for each lock and also the push-forward underlever for dropping the breechblocks. Casehardened trigger guard with pierced and scrolled dark horn finger rest. Figured 13 3/4 inch stock with raised cheekpiece and checkered grip. Steel buttplate engraved with diamond pattern checkering with a dot in the center of each diamond, and two iron sling mounts. Provenance: Property of a German Prince, the great, great grandchild of Emperor Franz Josef I, Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary.

Fine. Some age related storage and handling wear to the finish on the barrels, the blued finish fading to a plum color. The action have crisp and clear engraving and a similar plum colored finish to the barrels, the bright breechblocks are discolored. Each lock retains 30% original casehardened finish in the sheltered areas around the hammers, engraving remains clear and crisp. Minor age related storage and handling blemishes and bruises to the otherwise fine stock, checkering remains sharp.